Battery Storage
Battery Storage Solutions
Maximize your energy independence and optimize your solar investment with our advanced battery storage solutions. Store excess solar energy generated during the day for use in the evening, or install a standalone system to charge from the grid during cheaper off-peak hours. Battery storage systems offer enhanced energy independence and resilience, allowing you to utilize your own power more effectively and benefit from time-of-use tariffs. We offer a range of scalable battery solutions to suit both domestic and commercial needs, integrating seamlessly with new or existing solar installations, or as a standalone upgrade.
How Energy Storage Systems (ESS) Work
An ESS, commonly known as a battery storage system, allows you to store the excess electricity generated by your solar panels instead of exporting it all to the grid. You can then use this stored energy later, for example, during the evenings or when the sun isn't shining, significantly increasing your self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on expensive grid electricity. Some smart systems can even charge from the grid during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper, further boosting your savings.
Benefits of Battery Storage
- Greater energy independence from the grid
- Utilization of self-generated solar power 24/7
- Optimise energy consumption and reduce reliance on grid at peak times
- Potential for smart energy management and tariff optimization
- Reduced energy waste by storing surplus generation
- Contribution to a more stable and resilient energy grid
Whether for a domestic property looking to enhance self-sufficiency or a commercial enterprise aiming for significant cost savings and energy security, our expert team designs and installs tailored battery solutions using leading technologies.
Understanding Battery Storage Types
There are two primary types of battery storage systems, each offering distinct advantages depending on your existing solar setup and energy goals:
DC Battery Storage with Solar PV
DC (Direct Current) coupled battery storage systems integrate directly with your solar PV system's DC output, often via a hybrid inverter. This means the DC electricity generated by your solar panels can be sent directly to the battery for storage or converted to AC for immediate use in your home, all through a single inverter.
- Higher Efficiency: Fewer conversions are needed, leading to less energy loss and higher overall system efficiency.
- Ideal for New Installations: Often the most efficient and cost-effective solution when installing a new solar PV system and battery together, as it simplifies the overall system design.
- Optimised Self-Consumption: Maximises the direct use of solar power before it needs to be converted.
DC coupling is generally recommended for new solar installations where the battery can be seamlessly integrated from the outset, providing a highly efficient energy management solution.
AC Battery Storage
AC (Alternating Current) coupled battery storage systems are highly flexible. They can be installed as a standalone solution to work with the grid, or they can be designed to seamlessly integrate with existing solar PV systems that already have their own AC inverter. When used with solar, any surplus AC electricity is converted to DC to be stored in the battery. When needed, the battery converts the DC power back to AC for use in the home.
- Flexibility for Retrofits: Perfect for adding battery storage to an existing solar PV system without needing to replace your current solar inverter.
- Standalone Solution: Can be installed and charged directly from the grid, even without solar PV, ideal for optimising grid electricity costs.
- Independent Operation: The battery system can operate independently from the solar array, allowing for flexible charging options, such as drawing cheaper electricity from the grid during off-peak hours.
- Modular and Scalable: Often allows for easier expansion or integration of additional batteries later.
AC coupling offers significant flexibility, making it an excellent choice for homeowners looking to add storage to their current solar setup or for those who wish to primarily use the battery for grid-charging and time-of-use tariff optimisation.
Power Your Future with Battery Storage
Discover how battery storage can transform your energy consumption. Contact GM Electrical Services for a detailed consultation.